UN resolution on slave trade confronts a long-standing injustice – Veep

• Posted on March 30, 2026March 30, 2026
• by Nana Kwesi Coomson
• Comment

Ghana has spoken with principle, engaging the history of the African continent and the wider diaspora, Vice President Professor Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang, has said.Remove ads

She said this, and she and the Chief of Staff, Julius Debrah, accompanied by government ministers, traditional leaders, and citizens from across the country, received President John Dramani Mahama, at the airport on his return from the United Nations on Sunday, after the UN voted to declare the slave trade a grave human rights violation.”

“It was an honour to join Ghanaians in welcoming you back home following your leadership in securing the historic United Nations resolution recognising the transatlantic slave trade as the gravest crime against humanity.

“This is a consequential moment. It confronts a long-standing injustice and affirms the importance of acknowledging difficult historical periods. It is a recognition of the past, a moral statement, and a challenge to preserve and present this history with accuracy and seriousness.

“Ghana has spoken with principle, engaging the history of the African continent and the wider diaspora. This is a proud moment for Ghana and Africa, and a significant one for people of African descent,” she said.

President Mahama said the development represents a significant step in acknowledging one of the gravest injustices in human history.

President Mahama, who is also the African Union’s Champion for Reparations, returned to Ghana on Sunday, March 29, to a rousing welcome.Remove ads

Upon arrival, President Mahama reflected on the significance of the moment, noting that it serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through purpose and unity. He described the achievement as a proud moment for Ghana, Africa, and people of African descent worldwide, and affirmed that Ghana has once again demonstrated moral leadership on the global stage.

“This is a proud moment for Ghana. It is a proud moment for Africa. It is a proud moment for people of African descent wherever they are in the world,” President Mahama stated.

“This is not just about the past. It is about justice, dignity, and truth,” he added.

The United Nations passed a historic resolution introduced by Ghana that labels slavery “a grave human rights violation.”

This was with 123 votes in favour.

The decision referred to the enslavement of about 12 million Africans and their descendants through the transatlantic slave trade. It is seen as a key step toward official apologies, the restitution of cultural artefacts, and reparations.

The United States was among the three countries that voted no, citing concerns about the resolution’s language and potential legal implications.